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ports in a network can be centrally controlled from a server, which means
that authorized users can use the same credentials for authentication from
any point within the network.
This switch uses the Extensible Authentication Protocol over LANs
(EAPOL) to exchange authentication protocol messages with the client,
and a remote RADIUS authentication server to verify user identity and
access rights. When a client (i.e., Supplicant) connects to a switch port, the
switch (i.e., Authenticator) responds with an EAPOL identity request. The
client provides its identity (such as a user name) in an EAPOL response to
the switch, which it forwards to the RADIUS server. The RADIUS server
verifies the client identity and sends an access challenge back to the client.
The EAP packet from the RADIUS server contains not only the challenge,
but the authentication method to be used. The client can reject the
authentication method and request another, depending on the
configuration of the client software and the RADIUS server. The current
version of the firmware supports only the MD5 authentication method.
802.1X
client
RADIUS
server
accept or reject packet. If authentication is successful, the switch allows the
client to access the network. Otherwise, network access is denied and the
port remains blocked.
1. Client attempts to access a switch port.
2. Switch sends client an identity request.
3. Client sends back identity information.
4. Switch forwards this to authentication server.
5. Authentication server challenges client.
6. Client responds with proper credentials.
7. Authentication server approves access.
8. Switch grants client access to this port.
U
A
SER
UTHENTICATION
The client responds
to the appropriate
method with its
credentials, such as a
password or
certificate. The
RADIUS server
verifies the client
credentials and
responds with an
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